Telenor Asia, parent of Grameenphone, has urged the Bangladesh government to fully restore mobile internet services. Major telecom operators reported a shutdown of 3G and 4G networks ordered by local authorities, leaving only 2G services available. Previous internet blackouts and social media restrictions have raised concerns about safety and connectivity.
Abu Dhabi Customs reported a 27% increase in digital transactions and a 28% rise in proactive automated transactions in the first half of 2024. Customs declarations grew by 2%, and clearance times dropped to 13.86 minutes. The organization scored 94% in customer satisfaction, reflecting significant progress in digital transformation and service efficiency.
UAE-based AI company G42 is collaborating with U.S. partners and the Emirati government to meet global AI standards amid concerns about ties to China. Following Microsoft’s $1.5 billion investment, U.S. lawmakers fear technology transfer to China. G42 emphasizes its commitment to complying with the highest global standards in AI development and deployment.
STC Bahrain has launched its exclusive blockchain network, Intersect, on Avalanche, promoting digital transformation and Web3 innovation. The initiative includes a 30-day “Makeathon + Hackathon” event from August 12 to September 11, engaging developers and artists to showcase Intersect’s potential in revolutionizing various industries and enhancing digital services.
STULZ has opened a new Centre of Excellence in Dubai’s Silicon Oasis to enhance its presence in the EMEA region. The center, led by a team of experts, will offer comprehensive services, including project planning and advanced air conditioning solutions. STULZ will also attend GITEX Global in October to celebrate the opening.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reports a rise in cellular subscribers from 192.32 million in May 2024 to 192.53 million in June 2024. The number of 3G and 4G users also increased, while NGMS penetration grew from 55.07% to 55.61%. Jazz, Zong, Telenor, and Ufone all saw varied changes in 3G and 4G user bases.
Vertiv and Gulf Data Hub have launched a new state-of-the-art data center at Dubai Silicon Oasis. This decade-long collaboration highlights Vertiv’s advanced UPS, energy storage, and cooling solutions, enabling GDH to achieve high energy efficiency and operational excellence, setting new benchmarks for data center efficiency and sustainability in the Middle East.
Valu, MENA’s leading financial technology company, has partnered with Truecaller to enhance customer safety and business communication. By adopting Truecaller’s Verified Business Caller ID solution, Valu aims to provide secure, verified interactions, fostering trust and efficiency. This collaboration underscores Valu’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology for improved customer experience and financial inclusion.
The UAE will enhance its cybersecurity with three new policies focusing on cloud computing, data security, IoT security, and cybersecurity operations centers, announced Mohammed Hamad Al-Kuwaiti, chair of the Cybersecurity Council. Additionally, a new encryption law for data transmission security with quantum systems is expected by year-end, aiming to bolster national cybersecurity standards.
Pakistani engineers have developed “Beep,” a secure government messaging app for officials, ready for launch after successful trials. The app could extend to citizens if approved, amid ongoing social media restrictions and internet shutdowns. “Beep” aims to ensure uninterrupted communication among officials, featuring text, audio, video sharing, and conference calls.
